Zaka Ashraf the newly appointed Chairperson of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed his displeasure with the hybrid host model for the upcoming Asia Cup during a press conference. However, He made it clear that he would not interfere with the decision made by Najam Sethi.
When Ashraf first said he dismissed the hybrid concept, rumours of renegotiations followed. However, he then underlined that they had to go as planned because the decision had already been taken. Despite his own uncertainties, Ashraf said that he would keep his word and stick to the selected model. He added that Pakistan’s interests would always come first in any future choices.
The 2023 Men’s Asia Cup 2023 got into difficulties because the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opted against touring the neighbouring nation, where it had originally been scheduled to be hosted solely. The hybrid concept was then put out by Sethi and accepted by the Asian Cricket Council. The remaining games, including all India-Pakistan matchups and the championship game, would all be played in Sri Lanka. Four to five of the tournament’s 13 games would be played in Pakistan.
Although Ashraf’s remarks were made in his personal capacity, the PCB chairmanship is very soon to be his. The country’s prime minister submitted his name alongside Supreme Court lawyer Mustafa Ramday to join the PCB’s board of directors. Sethi, who previously served as the PCB’s short-term management committee chairman, withdrew his name from nomination on Tuesday to take over the board.
ACC Official Responds to Zaka Ashraf’s Reaction on Asia Cup Hybrid Model Remark
When discussing the hybrid approach, Ashraf criticised the ACC for what he considered to be doing Pakistan injustice. He expressed disappointment that Sri Lanka would host the main matches while Pakistan would only host lesser matches. Ashraf also mentioned that there were a number of unresolved issues that needed to be addressed.
An Asian Cricket Council (ACC) board member responded to Ashraf’s comments by supporting the current model and declaring that no changes will be made.
“The Asia Cup model has been accepted by ACC and there would be no change. Ashraf is free to say whatever he wants,” the ACC board member stated.
Cricket fans are looking forward to more information regarding the Asia Cup as Ashraf is prepared to start in his new role.
Also Read: Asia Cup 2023 To Finally Go Ahead in Pakistan & Sri Lanka
